Biometric Scale With Positive ID

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the invention pertain to a scale for weighing a user wherein the scale includes a built-in positive security/verification system, so as to be able to provide verification of a user&#39;s identity.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/149,634, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/114,880, filed on May 24, 2011, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/560,322, filed on Nov. 15, 2006, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,988,628, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/550,663, filed on Oct. 18, 2006, now U.S. Pat.No. 7,988,627, and which is also a continuation of U.S. provisionalpatent application No. 61/894,278, filed on Oct. 22, 2013.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Human health has become a greater concern, as longer lives have led to ademand for higher quality of life. Moreover, as government entities andinsurers bear an ever increasing share of health care costs, the desirefor preventative care has increased. Unfortunately, it is both unlikelyand cost prohibitive to expect the general population to increase thefrequency with which they visit a doctor or physician to receivecheck-ups, tests, and preventative guidance.

One possible solution to the lack of preventative check-ups and guidanceis the use of home testing equipment. For example, diabetes sufferersoften check their blood pressure and blood glucose levels at home, andmany people routinely weigh themselves at home in order to check thatthey are maintaining a healthy weight.

However, there may be in the near future a need for more users to takeresponsibility for their health through the use of such home tests.Since most users who wish to take home tests are already doing so, itmay be desirable to incentivize the remaining users in some manner to dosuch testing. One possible method of providing an incentive would be topay users in some way for positive test results and/or compliance with aprescribed course of exercise.

While such incentives may indeed serve to motivate users to takeincreased responsibility for their health, they also present anopportunity for cheating or abuse. For example, a user that stands toreceive a significant award for losing a certain amount of weight orexercising a certain amount may be tempted to cheat the system by havinga third party who weighs less or exercises more stand in for them. Thus,the inventor has determined that a lack of verifiable user ID maypresent a hurdle to more widespread adoption of home test systems.

While the disclosed principles address some or all of the shortcomingsdescribed above via various embodiments, it will be appreciated that thesolution of any particular problem is not to be taken as a limitation ofany of the claims herein unless explicitly stated. Moreover, thisbackground section is provided as an educational aid to the reader, andis not intended to be precisely representative of prior art. Thus, theinventor expressly hereby notes that the mention of any specific featureor aspect in the foregoing is not intended to be an indication that thefeature or aspect is representative of actual prior art.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment of the disclosed principles, a method is provided forrewarding a test kit user. The method entails gathering health dataregarding two or more health parameters of the user via a sensing devicein physical contact with the user, gathering user identity data at thesensing device, automatically transmitting the gathered health data anduser identity data over a network to a remote entity, determining at theremote entity whether one or more predetermined criteria have been metas evidenced by the gathered health data, verifying the user's identityat the remote entity via the gather user identity data, and providing areward to the user if the one or more predetermined criteria have beenmet and the user's identity has been verified.

The remote entity may be a server or other computer associated with aninsurer that insures the user or a server or other computer associatedwith a governmental entity. The reward provided to the user may be ofcommercial value when redeemed with a third party and/or may be aninsurance premium discount. The health data may include a user bloodpressure and a user weight, and may also include a pedometer reading.The health data may include one or more of a blood glucose reading and abone mass or bone density reading.

In an embodiment, the user identity data includes a user fingerprint ora user foot print. In an optional embodiment, the user identity dataincludes both a user foot print and a user foot print. In anotherembodiment, the user identity data includes a user-provided password orpass code.

Other features according to various embodiments of the invention will bediscussed in the examples below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a kiosk usable within embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the network operating environment 300of the kiosk within an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a security-enhanced biometric kioskunit according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a non-biometric entertainment-enhancedkiosk unit according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing a process of user alert and consultationfor unusual reading conditions according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing a process of providing entertainment andadvertising to users via a non-biometric kiosk according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic drawing of an exemplary home kit;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a triple test kit in keeping withembodiments of the disclosed principles; and

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a process for providing user rewards inthe context of an insurer being the incentivizing entity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As discussed above, certain embodiments of the invention pertain tobiometric measurement devices coupled to a wide area network such as theInternet or other communications infrastructure and/or network. The linkto the network may be implemented by way of wired or wirelessconnections or a combination thereof, and while high speed connectionssuch as DSL are preferred, slower connections may instead be used. Thephysical structure and features of a biometric kiosk usable withinembodiments of the invention was described in detail in the relatedapplication referenced above, and that description is incorporated byreference and will thus not be repeated at length herein.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a kiosk usable within embodiments ofthe invention. The kiosk 100 comprises biometric data sources 103 (e.g.,blood pressure cuff and associated electronics, scale and associatedelectronics, etc.), a display 101 and a printer 105.

These elements 101, 103, 105 are linked, typically by wired connections,to a processor assembly 107. The display 101 interfaces with theprocessor assembly 107 via a display driver 109 and a touch controlmodule 111. The touch control module 111 receives and processes touchscreen inputs from the display 101. The biometric data sources 103interfaces with the processor assembly 107 via serial ports 115.Finally, the printer 105 interfaces with the processor assembly 107 viaa printer interface 113.

The processor assembly 107 also comprises data links to external datasinks/sources. For example, in the illustrated embodiment of theinvention, the processor assembly 107 comprises a network communicationmodule 117, a phone communication module 119, and a wirelesscommunication module 121. As will be discussed in greater detail below,the wireless communication module 121 allows connectivity to a cellularnetwork and/or to local wireless devices (e.g., a PDA or cell phone) viaa short range protocol such as Bluetooth. The network communicationmodule 117 provides connectivity (wired or wireless) to one or morenetworks such as a local area network (LAN) and the Internet.

In addition to the features and elements noted above, the kiosk 100further comprises a plurality of security data sources 123 linked tokiosk 100 via the serial ports 115 or otherwise as appropriate. Thesecurity data sources 123 comprise equipment usable to gatheruser-identifiable information for purposes of user verification. This isimportant both to protect sponsors from fraud as well as to protectusers from unauthorized access to their biometric or other data. Thesecurity data sources 123 may include one or more cameras for retinalscanning, face recognition, and visual record-keeping purposes (e.g.,for potential verification of past test results), as well as afingerprint scanner for additional security and cross-checking forvalidation.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the network operating environment 200of the kiosk within an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, thekiosk 201 is communicably linked to a phone system 307, such as viaordinary phone lines. The kiosk 201 is also linked wirelessly to acellular network 203 and a local wireless device 205, e.g., a Bluetoothequipped device. The local wireless link allows the user to use theirown phone to communicate to or from the kiosk as well as to place a callthrough the kiosk to a customer service representative or advisor.

Finally, the kiosk 201 is linked via a network 213 to a number ofnetworked data sources/sinks, e.g., servers 209, 211. In an embodimentof the invention, server 209 is an operator server of the company orother entity responsible for the kiosk. For example, LifeClinic® is theoperator of kiosks that are placed in thousands of locations across thecountry.

In this embodiment of the invention, the other server 211 is associatedwith a sponsor or other entity interested in receiving data from thekiosks as will be discussed in greater detail below.

The data transferred over the network links to/from one or both ofservers 209, 211 to/from the kiosk 100 includes in an embodiment of theinvention any or all of the communication indicated herein, includingbut not requiring: waiver, identity, readings, demographics and otherdata from the kiosk 100; instructions, video, communications, priorreadings, and advertisements from the server(s) 209, 211.

FIG. 3 is a more detailed schematic diagram of a security-enhancedbiometric kiosk unit according to an embodiment of the invention,showing the components and logical units of the system rather than thephysical interconnections. Although the illustrated exemplary kioskarchitecture includes features for both user verification and usersecurity, it will be appreciated that aspects of the invention may beimplemented using either or both sets of features.

The security-enhanced biometric kiosk 300 comprises at its core aprocessor 307 linked to various other system components. The processormay be of any suitable type including one or more microprocessors,programmable logic controllers, and so, and may be implemented within apersonal computer, workstation, or other computing device, or may beintegrated into the kiosk 100 in a customized form. Although theprocessor 307 is illustrated as being directly linked to individualcomponents, it will be appreciated that the illustrated interconnectionsare exemplary. Components may be interconnected via other components andmay also be interconnected by a common bus architecture.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the processor 307 is linked to a set ofverification input devices including, in the illustrate arrangement, afingerprint scanner 301, a camera 303, and a retinal scanner 305. Itwill be appreciated that other types of verification devices may be usedinstead or in addition to those listed. Moreover, although the camera303 and retinal scanner 305 are illustrated as separate components, theymay share one or more components, e.g., optics, etc. As will beappreciated, commercial camera systems, both built in (e.g., in a laptop computer) and stand alone, exist that are capable of executing facetracking and face recognition tasks.

The fingerprint scanner 301, camera 303, and retinal scanner 305 arecommunicably linked to the processor 307. The processor 307 is similarlylinked to a series of databases through a database interface 317. Theillustrated databases include a fingerprint database 309, a facialfeature database 311, a retinal feature database 313, and an imagedatabase 315. The processor 307 is also linked to other components ofthe kiosk including a user interface 321, such as a screen, speaker,keyboard, buttons, etc. Additional components include biometric datasources 319 for kiosks that measure such information. The biometric datagathered by sources 319 can include parameters such as user weight,blood pressure, pulse rate, body fat and blood oxygen, or otherparameters as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art.

The processor 307 is further linked to a wireless communicationinterface 323. The wireless communication interface 323 provides amechanism for wirelessly communicating with nearby electronic devices.For example, the wireless communication interface 323 is adapted in anembodiment of the invention to wirelessly call a user's cell phone andconnect the user via wide area communications facilities 325 to a callcenter or emergency personnel. As will be discussed in greater detailbelow, this functionality allows a user to be connected to necessarypersonnel in the event of an abnormal biometric reading, such as anextremely high blood pressure reading. In this way, the user is givencounseling and advice to facilitate appropriate treatment or explain anycomplications. The user may also call a number, e.g., a 1-800 or othertoll-free number, to initiate a consultation or get answers to generalquestions.

The processor 307 may also be linked to a card reader 327. A user mayapply for and acquire a health information card, e.g., a co-brandedmagnetic stripe card promoted by the owner/operator and a credit cardcompany or other enterprise. At the time that the user applies for thecard, they preferably supply their name and address and may also beasked to respond to other questions that are of significance withrespect to marketing. At that time as well, the customer may also beasked to sign a waiver at the information desk whereby they agree thattheir name and/or other information can be used for promotional and/oradvertising purposes by the owner operator, etc. At the time that theuser signs for and obtains the card, they may also have their personalsecurity parameters gathered, e.g., face scan, retina scan, fingerprint,and so on. The user is then given a bar coded or magnetic coded loyaltycard that encodes or is linked to his or her identification, address,etc. It will be appreciated that the user may instead sign up for theservice on-line via the interface and connectivity of the kiosk itself,or from a personal computer or other networked computing device (e.g.,personal digital assistant, Internet-enabled cell phone, etc.). In thiscase, the waiver may either be executed electronically or may beprinted, executed, and mailed. The user card may be the user's creditcard or other card carrying encoded user-specific identifyinginformation.

When the user subsequently uses the kiosk, they are asked to scan theirbar code by the bar code reader. This allows the kiosk to retrievablystore the user's readings and also to access the user's name, address,etc. for promotional purposes. A waiver may appear on the display atthis time as well. In addition, the data provided by a gift card or acredit card may also provide a buying history of the user to allowcustomization of messages and advertising. For example, the kiosk couldrecommend products similar to those that the user had purchasedrecently. Additionally, the kiosk may provide customized coupons basedon the user's demographic data (race, class, income, age, ethnic origin,language, location, dwelling type, family size/type, gender, occupation,etc.) or buying history.

The fingerprint scanner 301 operates in a manner familiar to those ofskill in the art, either alone or in conjunction with processes executedon processor 307 or other component. The fingerprint scanner 301 obtainsan image of a user's finger compares this image to pre-scanned images,e.g., in database 309, to determine the identity of the user bydetermining whether the patterns of ridges and valleys in the imagesmatch. Although the fingerprint scanner 301 may be of any suitableconstruction, it will be appreciated that fingerprint scanners generallyutilize either optical or capacitive technologies.

Optical scanners generally employ a charge coupled device (CCD) tocapture the print image. Typically, an analog-to-digital converter inthe scanner system processes the analog electrical output of the CCD togenerate a digital image. The fingerprint scanner may comprise a lightsource such as an LED array to facilitate image acquisition. Much likeoptical scanners, capacitive fingerprint scanners also generate an imageof a fingerprint. However, rather than using photons, they employchanges in capacitance across the print. One advantage of capacitancetype sensors is that they cannot be manipulated via an image of afingerprint. Additionally, capacitive scanners can be made more compactthan optical devices.

As noted above, the camera 303 can be used for either or both of imagestorage, i.e., for later verification, and face recognition. For imagestorage purposes, the camera 303 is linked via the processor 307 to animage database 315. A photograph of each user is obtained by the camera303 and stored, e.g., in database 315, for later verification if needed.

For purposes of facial recognition, the camera 303 captures an image ofthe users face and uses this image to verify the user's identity. Humanfaces have certain distinguishable features or landmarks. For example,there are distinct dips and rises that make up different facialfeatures. Depending upon the algorithm used, as many as 80 landmarks maybe identified and used for recognition.

Examples of landmarks include the distance between a user's eyes, thewidth of a user's nose, depth of a user's eye sockets, shape or locationof a user's cheekbones, shape or location of a user's jaw line, and theshape or location of a user's chin. Features of the landmark points aremeasured and translated to a unique numerical code or “faceprint” thatrepresents the particular face. Pre-scanned faces, or relatedrepresentations such as face prints, are stored in database 311 tofacilitate later comparison for validation. Registration of a user'sfaceprint to be used for later verification may occur upon the user'sfirst use of a kiosk system as described herein, or may be obtainedelsewhere, e.g., at a registration desk.

The retinal scanner 305 obtains an image of the user's retina andcompares this to prior scans, e.g. scans stored in database 313, toverify a user's identity. Retinal scanners are commercially available,and operate in a manner similar to that described above, i.e. bymatching a retina of interest, or characteristics thereof, to avalidation image of a retina or to characteristics of such an image.

It will be appreciated that other identity verification techniques maybe used additionally or alternatively to verify a user's identity. Othertechniques include, but are not limited to, voiceprint recognition, veinpattern recognition, iris recognition, etc.

While the databases 309, 311, 313, and 315 may be local to the kiosk, itis preferred that alternatively or additionally, there are databasesthat are accessible by the kiosk in question as well as other kiosks sothat a user may access their information at any one of a global networkof kiosks. Thus, the databases 309, 311, 313, and 315 are preferablystored or replicated at one or more central servers and may bedownloaded periodically or as needed, or may be queried rather thandownloaded.

The aforementioned security and verification features are important notonly to prevent unauthorized access to a user's private data, but alsoto protect sponsors or affiliates from fraud. For example, it isimportant for kiosk sponsors and affiliates who provide incentiveslinked to user health to be able to verify that the user is indeed theperson that they purport to be. One area where significant incentivesmay be provided and hence where enhanced security will be important isthe area of insurance incentives. In particular, insurers will enrollwith a kiosk system host to receive user medical information from suchkiosks and to provide targeted advertising and incentives through thekiosks. In particular, a user may use any one of the global network ofkiosks to take a measurement of interest, e.g., weight, body fatpercentage, or blood pressure, and this information will be transmittedto the enrolled insurer. In an embodiment of the invention, the kioskdisplays a list of enrolled insurers to the user, and the user selectsthe appropriate company name.

If the user's current and prior measurements show a positive trend(e.g., losing body fat) at an acceptable rate (e.g., 2 pounds per week)or in an acceptable amount (e.g., 10 pounds), then the insurer willprovide a reward to the user. Rewards can consist of rebates, giftcards, reduced insurance rates, and so on. Thus, users may be tempted tocheat to obtain the incentives, i.e., by having a friend in betterhealth sit in as the user. To avoid fraud and cheating, it is importantthat the insurer be able to verify that the subscriber being rewardedhas indeed made the appropriate improvements.

In an embodiment of the invention, the kiosk, whether providinghealth-related measurements or not, displays information of generalinterest to the user. For example, the kiosk may display a stock tickeror 5-day weather forecast.

Kiosks of the type described above can be used for a number ofactivities and interchanges that provide value to both the community andthe sponsor or business supporting the machine. For example, the kiosk,whether or not it includes a biometric measurement facilities, can beused to provide entertainment such as via television or video. Theentertainment content may be customized for the sponsor, e.g., adepartment store, or may be publicly available entertainment. In thisembodiment of the invention, the entertainment provides a draw forcustomers who may not be interested in shopping or may be tired.

For examples, men accompanying women in a predominantly female-orientedstore may prefer to rest at the kiosk. In an embodiment of the inventionwherein the user identifies themselves by swiping a loyalty card, creditcard, etc., the system can provide customized

services. For example, if the system is able to access recent purchasehistory, it will supply appropriate coupons via the attached printer toencourage the user to avail themselves of the goods or services of thesponsor. More generally, a credit card or gift card's magnetic stripemay supply identity information both for customization of services andto track a user's biometric readings.

In this embodiment of the invention, the user may be presented with menuoptions to choose an activity. For example, a user may be asked tochoose from sports scores, sports highlights, interviews, news, currentaffairs, exercise tips, etc. In another example of the invention, thekiosk provides one or more maps or informational items related to thestore hosting the kiosk. Advertisements are run during these servicesand can be customized if the customer uses a personalized gift card orcredit card.

A schematic diagram of an exemplary kiosk that omits biometricmeasurement and information facilities but that provides entertainmentinformation such as via television, video, etc., is illustrated in FIG.4. The kiosk 400 is similar in some regards to that of FIG. 3, andincludes a processor 401, a user interface 403, wide area communicationsfacilities 405, and a set of databases 407, 409, linked to the processor401 via a database interface 411. The kiosk 400 includes a printer 413,which may also be used in the kiosk 300 of FIG. 3. The kiosk 400 alsoincludes a card reader 415. In overview, the non-biometric kiosk 400 asillustrated in FIG. 4 is usable to provide entertainment and advertisingto users. The manner of operation according to a specific example willbe given below by reference to the flow chart of FIG. 6.

Returning now to the system illustrated in FIG. 3, it was mentionedabove that such a biometric measurement equipped kiosk can be used toobtain and provide biometric data of interest to a user and to providean emergency alert to the user. In particular, certain biometricmeasurements can convey information sufficient to indicate whether theuser may be in or about to enter a dangerous state. For example, bloodpressure readings can indicate that a person is having, or is close tohaving, a stroke. In this case, the kiosk will call the user's cellphone automatically and connect the user to an emergency service, sothat a paramedic may further diagnose and advise the user. This isespecially useful for older users who may not be able to

dial a help number. In particular, very high (or otherwise worrisome)readings cause the kiosk to connect the user's cell phone to the kioskand then through to a call center representative for

counseling. When communicating with the user's cell phone, the kiosk maytarget devices within a small enough radius to likely include the cellphone, e.g., 2 or 3 feet. The connection

between the kiosk and the cell phone may be executed via Bluetooth orother suitable short-range wireless protocol.

A process of operation according to a specific example will be givenbelow by reference to the flow chart of FIG. 5. At stage 501 of theprocess 500, the kiosk receives user data, such as pursuant to the swipeof a user magnetic stripe card in a card reader. At stage 503, the kioskpresents to the user a menu of options. In an embodiment of theinvention, the options include an option to retrieve prior readings andan option to perform a current reading. If the user does not have a cardor swipes a card for which no data is available, or if the userinformation associated with the card does not match the user identityderived from identity verification, e.g., via face recognition, thekiosk may so inform the user. For example, the visual user interface ofthe kiosk may display a message such as: “Customized services are not

available due to lack of identity information/verification. Please visit[www.abc.com\ the information desk\etc.] to [obtain a Heath InformationCard\confirm identity\etc.].”

At stage 505, it is determined whether the user wishes to retrieve priorreadings or perform a current reading. If the user desires to retrieveprior readings the process flows to stage 507 a, whereat the kioskcontacts a server over a network or other link to retrieve the requestedreadings. During this time, at stage 507 b, the kiosk may display anaudio/video advertisement to the user. After the advertisement hasplayed, the kiosk presents the requested readings to the user at stage509 and returns to stage 503.

If at stage 505 it is determined that the user wishes to perform acurrent reading, the process flows to stage 511, whereat the user isinstructed to prepare for the test, i.e., by placing their arm in thecuff, sitting appropriately on the scale/seat, gripping a handle in aspecific location etc. At stage 513 a, the test begins. Concurrently instage 513 b, the kiosk presents an audio/video advertisement to theuser. After the advertisement has played, the kiosk presents therequested readings to the user at stage 509.

A stage 515, the kiosk determines whether the biometric reading given tothe user in stage 509 indicates a physical condition that requiresimmediate attention. For example, as noted above, certain blood pressurereadings or pulse rate readings may signal an ongoing or imminentserious physical problem such as a stroke. If it is determined at stage515 that the biometric reading given to the user does not indicate aphysical condition that requires immediate attention, then the processreturns to stage 503. Otherwise, the process flows to stage 517,whereupon the kiosk connects the user to a responder, such as a callcenter representative or emergency personnel or doctor on call, andtransmits data regarding the reading of concern to the responder. Atthis point, the responder is able to counsel the user or to summon thenecessary aid.

As noted above, the non-biometric kiosk 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 isusable to provide entertainment and advertising to users. The manner ofoperation according to a specific example is now shown by reference tothe flow chart of FIG. 6. At stage 601 of the process 600, the processdisplays advertisements on a user interface. Such advertisements may bestill or video, and may be interspersed with directions for a user toswipe their card to access entertainment options. At stage 603, thekiosk receives user data, such as pursuant to the swipe of a usermagnetic stripe card in a card reader. The data may either be stored onthe card or the data stored on the card may be linked to the user databy the kiosk.

Upon receipt of the user data, the process flows to stage 605, whereupona list of selectable options is presented to the user. Such options mayinclude sports scores, sports highlights, interviews, news, currentaffairs, exercise tips, etc. At stage 607, the process receives a userselection of an option and at stage 609 proceeds to display theentertainment requested by the user. At the same time, the process mayintersperse within the material advertisements customized to the userbased on the user demographic or other data as gathered from the user'sco-branded card.

Prior to ending, the process optionally prints a coupon for the user atstage 611. The coupon may be specific to a store within which the kioskis hosted, or may be specific to a product sold in such store, or maysimply be specific to the user demographics. Subsequent to stage 611,the process terminates.

Although the biometric service-providing kiosks discussed above mayprovide the measurement data as well as advertising and the other typesof data discussed above, the kiosk also optionally provides customizeduser feedback in a further embodiment of the invention. For example, ifthe user has lost a certain amount of excess weight compared to a priorvisit or visits, the kiosk will inform the user of the loss and willalso provide a modified diet or exercise regimen to the user. Theupdated diet and/or regimen may be tailored to continue an appropriateweight loss, slow an excessive weight loss rate, or accelerate aninadequate weight loss rate.

To provide or reiterate certain salient features, it is noted that thehealth measurement kiosk may measure one or more resting healthparameters include blood pressure, blood oxygen, cardiac condition,cardiac arrhythmia, blood glucose and body mass index (BMI). Withrespect to BMI or other weight-based measurements, the kiosk may includea scale configured to determine a user's weight.

With respect to verifying the identity of the user, the kiosk mayinclude one or more identity functions or modules, such as a retinalscanner, a facial recognition module, a palm print reader, a foot printscanner and a finger print reader. In an embodiment having a scale foruser weight, the ID module may be a foot print reader in the surface ofthe scale, for example.

Further with respect to measuring BMI, the device (or its processor) maybe configured to offer a reward to an obese user who meets apredetermined BMI threshold, e.g., over 30, and who has exhibited weightloss progress. The he reward may include reimbursable counseling,discounts on health insurance, and/or a cash reward.

The kiosk may store user health information locally or remotely, in anencrypted form available only to the user and third parties designatedby the user, e.g., a physician. As noted above, linking of the user'smobile communication device to the remote health service or health careprovider employs near field communications between the kiosk and themobile device. An application may be loaded on the communication deviceto link the mobile communication

device of the user to the remote health service or health care providervia streaming video or digital messaging. The application may accessuser payment information to allow payment from the user to the remotehealth service or health care provider. In an embodiment, theapplication is configured to display advertising on the device.

The remote health service or health care provider may be a call centeror a health care practitioner. Further, the kiosk may include a userinterface screen, such that the communication session between the userand the remote health service or health care provider is opened by firstpresenting on the user interface screen a selectable element for openingsuch a link, and receiving a user selection of the selectable element.The selectable element may be presented, for example, when the measuredhealth parameters indicate a potential health problem.

The remote health service or health care provider may be compensated bythe user or the user's insurance. In an embodiment, the remote healthservice or health care provider refers the user to a physician forfollow up care, and may collect a referral fee based on such referral.

The communication session between the user and the remote health serviceor health care provider may be one of voice over IP and a videoconference. Further, the kiosk may display an advertisement to the uservia the user interface screen or via a user device. The advertisementmay include three or more types of stimulus selected from the among theavailable senses, e.g., visual stimulus, motion stimulus, audiostimulus, and scent stimulus.

The processor of the kiosk may also be configured to interact with asocial media account associated with the user. In an embodiment, acamera may be included on the kiosk as a deterrent to cheating.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the kiosk optionally modifiesdisplayed advertising according to user health as indicated by thebiometric measurements. For example, advertisements for snack foods arenot appropriate for overweight users, whereas information on healthyeating programs and so on may be more appropriate.

As noted above, the kiosk may comprise an attached or integratedprinting device. In this regard, the printer can be used to print outdetailed customized instructions and programs for the user. For example,the updated diet and/or regimen may be printed out to be taken by theuser. Preprinted materials may also be made available instead or inaddition to the contemporaneously printed materials.

As discussed herein, video may comprise downloaded and/or streamingvideo, animation, etc., and may be accompanied by sound and/or othersensory information.

In an embodiment, a home health testing kit is provided to allow a userto check relevant health parameters at home. The configuration of such adevice can be understood from FIG. 7, which is a simplified schematicdrawing of an exemplary home kit. The kit 1 includes a processor 2 thatcontrols the operation of the kit 1. To this end, the kit includes adisplay screen 6 as well as a measurement module 4. A communicationsmodule 3 provides communications between the home kit 1 and the userdevice 5, and between the home kit 1 and the internet 7 or othernetwork, e.g., to contact the remote health service or health careprovider.

In an embodiment, the portable health measurement home kit measures, viathe measurement module 4, one or more resting health parameters, e.g.,blood pressure, blood oxygen, cardiac condition, cardiac arrhythmia,blood glucose and body mass index. Although it is portable, the home kitincludes a scale to determine user weight in an embodiment. The kit mayalso provide a drug testing capability and/or a cholesterol testingcapability.

The communication session between the user and the remote health serviceor health care provider may be made by linking the user mobile device tothe remote health service or health care provider using near fieldcommunications. An application loaded on the communication device of theuser may be used to link the mobile communication device of the user tothe remote health service or health care provider via streaming video ordigital

messaging. The application may also have access to user paymentinformation to allow payment from the user to the remote health serviceor health care provider, which may be a call center or a health carepractitioner.

The user interface screen or display screen may be used to present aselectable element for opening a communications link. In an embodiment,the selectable element is presented when the measured health parametersindicate a potential health problem. The communication session may bevia voice over IP or via video conference. Further, with respect topayment, the remote health service or health care provider may becompensated by the user or their insurance.

In an embodiment wherein the remote health service or health careprovider refers the user to a physician for follow up care, they maycollect a referral fee based on such referral. For purposes ofmonetization, the device may display on its screen or the user devicescreen an advertisement to the user via the user interface screen. Theportable health measurement home

kit may also be configured to interact with a social media accountassociated with the user. For purposes of user identification, the kitmay include at least one of a retinal scanner, a facial recognitionmodule, a palm print reader, a foot print scanner and a finger printreader, such that the processor can verify the user's identity.

In a related embodiment, a weight measurement station is provided formeasuring a weight of a user. The weight measurement station includes aportion configured to support the user in one of a sitting and standingposition and to determine the user's weight. A portion

configured to determine the user's identity ensures that data privacy ismaintained and that any incentives or rewards are properly earned. Acommunication interface is configured to communicate with a remoteentity, such that the station processor may open a communication sessionbetween the weight measurement station and the remote entity. In anembodiment, the portion configured to determine the user's identitycomprises a footprint reader.

In a further embodiment, wherein a blood pressure sensor such as asensor cuff for the user's arm is used, the cuff is communicativelylinked to the footprint reader in order to verify the identity of theuser for purposes of the blood pressure measurements. This link may bemade via Bluetooth or other short-range communications technology, andmay be direct or indirect. Alternatively, each of the scale and the cuffmay be communicatively linked to a third entity that maintains andprocesses user readings and/or used identity information.

In yet another embodiment, the system enables a user to verifiablyengage in walking as a rewardable alternative to or supplement to weightloss. In this embodiment, a fingerprint reader is located on, orcollocated with, a user-wearable pedometer/pulse clip. In thisembodiment, the user's identity is verified at set or random intervalsor times by the fingerprint sensor while the user is walking. In thisway, he user may earn get healthy rewards credit.

In a further embodiment of the disclosed principles, a triple test kitwith verified user ID is provided. FIG. 8 is a schematic view of atriple test kit in keeping with embodiments of the disclosed principles.In the illustrated embodiment, the system includes three test modules,namely a scale 10 and associated electronics, a blood pressure cuff 11and associated electronics, and a pedometer 12 and associatedelectronics. The modules 10, 11, 12 may be interconnected permanently orintermittently by wired or wireless connections supported by respectiveconnection interfaces 13, 14, and 15 associated with the scale 10, bloodpressure cuff 11, pedometer 12 and the associated electronics.

In a further embodiment, a fingerprint reader 16 is within or associatedwith the pedometer 12. For example, the fingerprint reader may bephysically located on or in the same housing as the pedometer 12 or maybe connected to the pedometer 12 via a cable. Similarly, a footprintreader 17 may be located on the scale 10. It will be appreciated thatboth a footprint reader and a fingerprint reader typically comprise asensing surface as well as components for scanning, packetizing, orotherwise gleaning and processing the sensed data.

In an embodiment, one or more components may also have an interface toone or both of a user device 18, such as user device 5 in FIG. 7, and apersonal computer or other computing device 19. In this way, collecteddata may be sent via the user device 18 or computing device 19 to aninsurer server or other entity located on the internet or other widearea network.

The operation of the disclosed exemplary system of FIG. 8 may be bestappreciated by reference to the process 30 illustrated via the flowchart of FIG. 9. This process 30 is illustrated in the context of aninsurer being the incentivizing entity. At stage 31 of the process 30,the insurer offers a reward to a user in the event that the user is ableto meet certain health requirements that are testable via the scale 10,blood pressure cuff 11 and pedometer. These requirements may comprise anexercise goal, a weight loss or maintenance goal, etc.

At stage 32 of the process, the user tests their health status (weight,blood pressure) and/or verifies their exercise level (e.g., via thepedometer). The user's biometric ID data, such as their fingerprintand/or footprint, is collected concurrently at stage 33 of the process30 by the relevant hardware, e.g., the footprint reader 17 andfingerprint reader 16. At stage 34, the insurer collects the user ID andthe user's health/exercise data, e.g., via the internet.

The insurer then processes the received data to verify the user'sidentity and to determine whether a reward is due to the user. Thus, atstage 35, the insurer compares the received identity data (footprint,fingerprint) to identity data that is has previously stored for theuser. The previous storage of the user identity data may have been at apharmacy or other authorized provider, for example. If the comparisonyields a substantial match (to whatever threshold the insurer deemsacceptable), then the process 30 flows to stage 36. Otherwise, theprocess 30 exits.

At stage 36, the insurer determines whether a reward is to be providedto the user. For example, if the user has met a weight loss or weightmaintenance goal, or has met an exercise goal, then a reward may be due.Rewards may consist of cash, discounts, store credits or other suitablydesirable medium. Finally, at stage 37, the insurer records the user'scurrent health status, records that a reward has been paid, andtransmits an indication of the reward to the user. The identificationmay be a discount code, a notification that a premium discount will beapplied, etc. In an embodiment, cash/credit card rewards are provided bysponsors and insurance companies.

Although the disclosed user ID verification techniques are beneficial inmany ways, alternative ID verification may nonetheless be provided in anembodiment. For example, in an embodiment, a user is identified by theuse of a password or pass code. While this provides a less certainverification of the user's identification, the rewards provided usingsuch verification may be commensurately reduced. Thus, for example,user's whose systems provide a biometric identification may be given thefull reward when conditions warrant a reward, whereas user's whosesystems provide only password verification may be given a reduced rewardin the same circumstances. In addition to the rewards noted above, therewards may consist of other types of commercially valuable items suchas coupons to specific stores, perhaps based on user diet, activity,etc.

In an embodiment, the system enables a software upgrade that transitionsthe system from a password enabled system to a biometrically verifiedsystem. This is executed in a further embodiment by providing an unlockcode or certificate that the user can purchase to unlock functionalityalready programmed in the device memory. Alternatively, an onlinedownload of additional functionality may be enabled, e.g., by purchase.

In an embodiment, the home test system alternatively or additionallyincludes a bone density and/or bone mass test or test module. This isespecially helpful for older users or users otherwise subject to loss ofbone. In a further embodiment, each kit may provide a testing module orinterface and equipment for testing blood glucose levels or other levelsof importance for diabetes or pre-diabetes care.

As part of measuring body mass and/or body composition, the user isprovided counseling in an embodiment in order to improve user health andmay be provided recommended daily caloric intake information andsuggested menu changes as weight changes. For example, a user with anexcessive BMI may be given instructions, recipes, techniques etc. toreduce fat content, whereas an overly thin user might receive tips onincreasing lean mass and eating a more rounded or nutritious diet.

In a further embodiment the triple test kit is equipped with two cuffsrather than one, or is sold with a selected one of two or more optionalcuffs, or in a selected one of two or more kit forms. For example, thekit may be offered with a regular cuff or with a larger cuff for largerusers, providing widespread availability.

As with the kiosks, the home test kit may also be used to supporthealth-based challenges and contests or competitions. Contests may bebetween schools (K-12, colleges, graduate schools, vocational schools,etc.), institutions (companies, company braches or locations, scoutingor other social organizations, churches, synagogues, and so on),pharmacies, cities, or other distinct groups of individuals.

In an embodiment applicable to both the kiosk and the home kit, themachine stores user data at one or more remote or central locations,optionally in an encoded or encrypted form. All references cited hereinare hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if eachreference were individually and specifically indicated to beincorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the invention (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing”are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, butnot limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of valuesherein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referringindividually to each separate value falling within the range, unlessotherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated intothe specification as if it were

individually recited herein. All methods described herein can beperformed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein orotherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and allexamples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, isintended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose alimitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. Nolanguage in the specification should be construed as indicating anynon-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, includingthe best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention.Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Theinventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations asappropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practicedotherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, thisinvention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subjectmatter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicablelaw. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in allpossible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unlessotherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

We claim:
 1. A scale for weighing a user, the scale comprising: a weightsensor configured for physical contact with one or both of the user'sfeet to generate an indication of the user's weight; a print sensorlocated on the scale such that at least a portion of the user's footcontacts the print sensor when the foot is in physical contact with theweight sensor, wherein the print sensor outputs data indicative of aprint associated with the portion of the user's foot; and a processorconfigured to receive the indication of the user's weight and generate aweight value, and to receive the print associated with the portion ofthe user's foot, and to associate the print with the user in order toassociate the generated weight value with the user.
 2. The scale inaccordance with claim 1, further comprising a memory, wherein theprocessor is further configured to store weight readings associated withthe user in memory and to retrieve stored readings for display to theuser after associating the print with the user.
 3. The scale inaccordance with claim 1, further comprising a networking module, andwherein the processor is further configured to transmit a user identityand weight readings associated with the user over a network to a remoteentity.
 4. The scale in accordance with claim 1, wherein the remoteentity is a server or other computer associated with an insurer thatinsures the user.
 5. The scale in accordance with claim 1, wherein theremote entity is a server or other computer associated with agovernmental entity.
 6. The scale in accordance with claim 1, whereinthe processor is further configured to gather non-weight health datafrom the user including a user blood pressure.
 7. The scale inaccordance with claim 6, wherein the non-weight health data furtherincludes a pedometer reading.
 8. The scale in accordance with claim 1,wherein the print comprises a user foot print.
 9. The scale inaccordance with claim 1, wherein the print comprises a user toe print.10. The scale in accordance with claim 6, wherein the non-weight healthdata further includes one or more of a blood glucose reading and a bonemass or bone density reading.